Most issues with a new vape can be resolved with the correct setup. Use this guide to prepare your product, avoid harsh or burnt draws, and identify when something may genuinely be wrong.
Refillable and pre-filled products require different setup steps. Begin with the section that matches your product.
Your device uses bottled e-liquid and a refillable pod, tank or replaceable coil.
Your pod contains e-liquid and is designed to connect directly to a compatible device.
Devices can operate differently. The manufacturer’s instructions should take priority where they differ from this general guide.
Complete every step before taking your first draw. Using a new coil before it has absorbed enough e-liquid is one of the most common causes of a burnt taste.
Check the device, pod and charging port for visible damage.
Use the recommended charging cable and allow the device to charge before first use.
Confirm compatibility and make sure the pod or coil is fully and evenly seated.
Open the filling plug and add e-liquid slowly. Do not place e-liquid down the central airflow tube.
Leave a small air space inside the pod and close the filling plug securely.
Keep the filled pod upright while the e-liquid completely saturates the cotton.
Begin with slow, gentle draws. If the device has adjustable power, begin at the lower end of the recommended range.
These simple habits prevent many common performance problems.
Filling the pod is not enough. Allow at least 5–10 minutes for the cotton to absorb the e-liquid.
Do not continue using the pod when the e-liquid level is too low to keep the cotton wet.
Pulling too forcefully can draw excess e-liquid into the airflow, causing gurgling or spitback.
Wipe condensation from the pod base and device contacts using a clean, dry tissue.
Pre-filled products require less preparation, but packaging seals, compatibility and inhaling technique still need to be checked.
Make sure the pod is designed for the exact device model you are using.
Remove protective stickers, silicone bungs and seals from the mouthpiece, base and airflow openings.
Do not use a pod that appears cracked, damaged or significantly empty when first opened.
If the device is rechargeable, ensure it has sufficient charge before assuming the pod is not working.
Push the pod into place evenly. It should sit securely without forcing it.
Most pod devices respond best to a smooth mouth-to-lung inhale, similar to drawing on a cigarette.
A strong or uncomfortable throat hit does not necessarily mean the product is faulty. Check these common causes first.
A nicotine strength that is too high for you may feel excessively strong or uncomfortable.
Freebase nicotine generally produces a more noticeable throat hit than nicotine salts.
A long or forceful draw may produce a stronger sensation than a short, controlled inhale.
If the device is adjustable, excessive power can make the vapour warmer and harsher.
A dry or partially saturated coil can create an unpleasant, scratchy or burnt draw.
A worn coil may produce a burnt taste, weaker flavour or an increasingly harsh sensation.
Select the issue you are experiencing to see the most likely causes and the checks you can perform.
A burnt taste usually means the cotton inside the coil is dry, damaged or worn.
Once the cotton has been badly burnt, adding more e-liquid will not normally restore it.
Stop using the product and seek professional advice if you feel unwell or experience persistent irritation.
Vapour production can differ between devices, coil resistances and e-liquid formulations.
A small amount of condensation around the pod is normal and is not necessarily a leak.
Gurgling generally means excess e-liquid or condensation has entered the airflow passage.
This is commonly called spitback and may happen when excess e-liquid collects around the coil or airflow.
Flashing lights may indicate a low battery, poor pod connection, short circuit, overheating or activation timeout.
Do not continue using the device if the warning persists, particularly if it becomes unusually hot.
Slight warmth during use or charging can occur, but excessive heat is not normal.
Do not force the pod. Check the product name, model and pod compatibility shown on the packaging and product page.
Products that look similar may use different connections. Contact Kicko before opening additional pods if you believe the incorrect product was purchased.
Pods and coils are consumable components. Their lifespan varies depending on use, power, e-liquid and inhaling habits.
A persistent burnt taste usually means the cotton has been damaged or the coil has reached the end of its usable life.
A noticeable decline in performance after charging and cleaning can indicate a worn pod or coil.
If cleaning, correct filling and gentler inhaling do not resolve the issue, the pod or coil may need replacing.
Complete the basic setup checks first. Contact us if the product still does not operate correctly.
Many apparent faults are caused by setup, charging or pod connection issues.
Stop using the product and contact Kicko if you notice any of the following.
Correct storage and charging can improve performance and reduce avoidable product problems.
Keep pods upright where practical to reduce leaking into the mouthpiece or device.
Do not leave vape products in hot cars, direct sunlight or near other heat sources.
Use the recommended cable and do not leave the device charging unattended or under bedding.
Store devices, pods and e-liquids securely and out of reach of children and pets.
Contact the Kicko team and tell us the device name, pod or coil type, what happens when you use it, and which troubleshooting steps you have already completed.
Contact KickoThis guide provides general product information only. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the advice of your healthcare professional. Stop using the product and seek appropriate assistance if you feel unwell or if a device appears damaged, unsafe or excessively hot.
